Bill writes: “This is a photo of Gracie Hodges-Fraser’s first time meeting and sitting on Santa’s lap. Gracie was fine until she sat on Santa’s lap and her expression is priceless…”

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Bill writes: “This is a photo of Gracie Hodges-Fraser’s first time meeting and sitting on Santa’s lap. Gracie was fine until she sat on Santa’s lap and her expression is priceless…”

Bill writes: “This is a photo of Gracie Hodges-Fraser’s first time...meeting and sitting on Santa’s lap. Gracie was fine until she sat...on Santa’s lap and her expression is priceless…”

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Jennifer writes: “After I posted this picture on facebook, a friend of mine insisted that I submit it to you for the 2012 Santa Tantrum Hall of Fame. The picture is of our 17 month old daughter, Charlotte, obviously not a fan of Santa.”

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Jennifer writes: “After I posted this picture on facebook, a friend of mine insisted that I submit it to you for the 2012 Santa Tantrum Hall of Fame. The picture is of our 17 month old daughter, Charlotte, obviously not a fan of Santa.”

Jennifer writes: “After I posted this picture on facebook, a friend...of mine insisted that I submit it to you for the 2012 Santa Tantrum...Hall of Fame. The picture is of our 17 month old daughter, Charlotte,...obviously not a fan of Santa.”

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Judy writes: “This is our 7 month old with the Walnut Creek Broadway Plaza Santa. She's normally a very smiley, happy little one but really panicked for the 10 seconds she was with this Santa, even though he was very sweet. And I swear she was never upset about the bow on her head!”

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Judy writes: “This is our 7 month old with the Walnut Creek Broadway Plaza Santa. She's normally a very smiley, happy little one but really panicked for the 10 seconds she was with this Santa, even though he was very sweet. And I swear she was never upset about the bow on her head!”

Judy writes: “This is our 7 month old with the Walnut Creek Broadway...Plaza Santa. She's normally a very smiley, happy little one but really...panicked for the 10 seconds she was with this Santa, even though he...was very sweet. And I swear she was never upset about the bow on her...head!”

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Lindsay writes: "I am Lindsay, Mama to little Cadence (a.k.a. "Cady," age 2), who is sitting on Santa's lap in the attached picture. She had been telling her Mommy and I how much she wanted to see Santa, and had been practicing telling him the two things she wanted most for Christmas: candy and plastic horseys. But when the time came, all she could do was scream "hold me, Mama!" Poor kid! … Cady must have a selective memory, because since Saturday she's been proudly recalling how she "met Santa" and he was "such a nice boy." :-)"

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Lindsay writes: "I am Lindsay, Mama to little Cadence (a.k.a. "Cady," age 2), who is sitting on Santa's lap in the attached picture. She had been telling her Mommy and I how much she wanted to see Santa, and had been practicing telling him the two things she wanted most for Christmas: candy and plastic horseys. But when the time came, all she could do was scream "hold me, Mama!" Poor kid! … Cady must have a selective memory, because since Saturday she's been proudly recalling how she "met Santa" and he was "such a nice boy." :-)"

Lindsay writes: "I am Lindsay, Mama to little Cadence (a.k.a. "Cady,"...age 2), who is sitting on Santa's lap in the attached picture. She had...been telling her Mommy and I how much she wanted to see Santa, and had...been practicing telling him the two things she wanted most for...Christmas: candy and plastic horseys. But when the time came, all she...could do was scream "hold me, Mama!" Poor kid! … Cady must have a...selective memory, because since Saturday she's been proudly recalling...how she "met Santa" and he was "such a nice boy." :-)"

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James Hamilton writes: “Liam and Johnnie's (yes its a girl) first trip to see Santa, 2012. I like to think Johnnie was reaching to Liam for support while Liam and Santa were both thinking "what the hell is going on" - but for two different reasons.”

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James Hamilton writes: “Liam and Johnnie's (yes its a girl) first trip to see Santa, 2012. I like to think Johnnie was reaching to Liam for support while Liam and Santa were both thinking "what the hell is going on" - but for two different reasons.”

James Hamilton writes: “Liam and Johnnie's (yes its a girl) first...trip to see Santa, 2012. I like to think Johnnie was reaching to Liam...for support while Liam and Santa were both thinking "what the hell is...going on" - but for two different reasons.”

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From Chris and Maggie: “Here is a picture of our girls, Lila and Violet. Santa was being a good sport - Violet wasn't having any of it. Fun times.”

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From Chris and Maggie: “Here is a picture of our girls, Lila and Violet. Santa was being a good sport - Violet wasn't having any of it. Fun times.”

From Chris and Maggie: “Here is a picture of our girls, Lila and...Violet. Santa was being a good sport - Violet wasn't having any of it....Fun times.”

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Sarah Copeland writes: “Hmmm...self-explanatory. Yes - 25 minutes of patiently waiting in line, followed by about 27 seconds of high-pitched wailing, then a rapid return to calm when we rescued them from the bearded fellow.”

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Sarah Copeland writes: “Hmmm...self-explanatory. Yes - 25 minutes of patiently waiting in line, followed by about 27 seconds of high-pitched wailing, then a rapid return to calm when we rescued them from the bearded fellow.”

Sarah Copeland writes: “Hmmm...self-explanatory. Yes - 25 minutes of patiently waiting in line,...followed by about 27 seconds of high-pitched wailing, then a rapid...return to calm when we rescued them from the bearded fellow.”

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From Betty Trinh: “My daughter's first Xmas was last year. She actually didn't cry when he held her. Apparently, she wanted to sock him instead. She was a naughty girl.”

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From Betty Trinh: “My daughter's first Xmas was last year. She actually didn't cry when he held her. Apparently, she wanted to sock him instead. She was a naughty girl.”

From Betty Trinh: “My daughter's first Xmas was last year. She...actually didn't cry when he held her. Apparently, she wanted to sock...him instead. She was a naughty girl.”

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Kristin writes: “My daughter is NOT a fan of the man in red!”

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Kristin writes: “My daughter is NOT a fan of the man in red!”

Kristin writes: “My daughter is NOT a fan of the man in red!”

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Salvatore writes: “Attached you will find a picture of our son Giovanni (Gio) at his first Santa photo experience. We knew he wasn't a big fan of strangers so the week prior we began preparing him for the adventure to come! We watched countless Santa and Xmas movies, an even visited the same Santa a few days before. In the photo, Gio is yelling for "Daaaaad" to grab him up. Enjoy and thank you!”

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Salvatore writes: “Attached you will find a picture of our son Giovanni (Gio) at his first Santa photo experience. We knew he wasn't a big fan of strangers so the week prior we began preparing him for the adventure to come! We watched countless Santa and Xmas movies, an even visited the same Santa a few days before. In the photo, Gio is yelling for "Daaaaad" to grab him up. Enjoy and thank you!”

Salvatore writes: “Attached you will find a picture of our son...Giovanni (Gio) at his first Santa photo experience. We knew he...wasn't a big fan of strangers so the week prior we began preparing him...for the adventure to come! We watched countless Santa and Xmas...movies, an even visited the same Santa a few days before. In the...photo, Gio is yelling for "Daaaaad" to grab him up. Enjoy and thank...you!”

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Sara reports that 20-month-old triplets Finn, Calvin and William were fine waiting in line for Santa at this Minneapolis Macy’s. “… Once we put them on his lap, a switch was flipped and they all shrieked. The whole thing took less than 20 seconds, but a talented photographer managed to capture this perfect moment in time!”

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Sara reports that 20-month-old triplets Finn, Calvin and William were fine waiting in line for Santa at this Minneapolis Macy’s. “… Once we put them on his lap, a switch was flipped and they all shrieked. The whole thing took less than 20 seconds, but a talented photographer managed to capture this perfect moment in time!”

Sara reports that 20-month-old triplets Finn, Calvin and William were...fine waiting in line for Santa at this Minneapolis Macy’s. “…...Once we put them on his lap, a switch was flipped and they all...shrieked. The whole thing took less than 20 seconds, but a talented...photographer managed to capture this perfect moment in time!”

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This is Ken Dwinell on Santa’s lap in 1949 at the Emporium on Market Street, when he was 2 1/2. His mother also kept the photo folder. Ken writes: “I also have a photo of me on Santa's lap in 1950 - at Macy's but I was very happy that day!"

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This is Ken Dwinell on Santa’s lap in 1949 at the Emporium on Market Street, when he was 2 1/2. His mother also kept the photo folder. Ken writes: “I also have a photo of me on Santa's lap in 1950 - at Macy's but I was very happy that day!"

This is Ken Dwinell on Santa’s lap in 1949 at the Emporium on Market...Street, when he was 2 1/2. His mother also kept the photo folder. Ken...writes: “I also have a photo of me on Santa's lap in 1950 - at...Macy's but I was very happy that day!"

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Kristen writes: “Attached is my family photo with Santa from 1970. My Mom dragged us all to Macy's in downtown San Francisco for this Christmas photo, and after this, never did it again! I'm on the left, screaming along with my twin sister, Carolyn, while my still-photogenic-42-years-later-sister, Lynda, happily poses. PLEASE NOTE, less than half of my 6 year old brother, Steve, made it into the photograph. Although he's kind of smiling, he was probably keeping his distance since he was still mad that both of us twins were girls, robbing him of the chance of ever having a brother...”

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Kristen writes: “Attached is my family photo with Santa from 1970. My Mom dragged us all to Macy's in downtown San Francisco for this Christmas photo, and after this, never did it again! I'm on the left, screaming along with my twin sister, Carolyn, while my still-photogenic-42-years-later-sister, Lynda, happily poses. PLEASE NOTE, less than half of my 6 year old brother, Steve, made it into the photograph. Although he's kind of smiling, he was probably keeping his distance since he was still mad that both of us twins were girls, robbing him of the chance of ever having a brother...”

Kristen writes: “Attached is my family photo with Santa from 1970. ...My Mom dragged us all to Macy's in downtown San Francisco for this...Christmas photo, and after this, never did it again! I'm on the...left, screaming along with my twin sister, Carolyn, while my...still-photogenic-42-years-later-sister, Lynda, happily poses. PLEASE...NOTE, less than half of my 6 year old brother, Steve, made it into the...photograph. Although he's kind of smiling, he was probably keeping his...distance since he was still mad that both of us twins were girls,...robbing him of the chance of ever having a brother...”

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"This is of my sons Erik and Chris with Santa at Capwell's downtown Oakland in 1977. Even though Erik is clutching his tattered security blanket, he's still scared of Santa, who looks scary to me too."

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"This is of my sons Erik and Chris with Santa at Capwell's downtown Oakland in 1977. Even though Erik is clutching his tattered security blanket, he's still scared of Santa, who looks scary to me too."

"This is of my sons Erik and Chris with Santa at Capwell's downtown...Oakland in 1977. Even though Erik is clutching his tattered security...blanket, he's still scared of Santa, who looks scary to me too."

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Ariane writes: “Enclosed are photos of mom and dad as kids and their 15 month old twins on Santa's lap. Apples didn't fall far from the tree. Happy, Happy Holidays. And a very peaceful New Year.”

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Ariane writes: “Enclosed are photos of mom and dad as kids and their 15 month old twins on Santa's lap. Apples didn't fall far from the tree. Happy, Happy Holidays. And a very peaceful New Year.”

Ariane writes: “Enclosed are photos of mom and dad as kids and their...15 month old twins on Santa's lap. Apples didn't fall far from the...tree. Happy, Happy Holidays. And a very peaceful New Year.”

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Katy writes: “Attached is an awesome picture of our son Jasper on Santa's lap this year! The second picture is with us (his parents), so he calmed down a little, but he's still in a state of slight devastation ;).”

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Katy writes: “Attached is an awesome picture of our son Jasper on Santa's lap this year! The second picture is with us (his parents), so he calmed down a little, but he's still in a state of slight devastation ;).”

Katy writes: “Attached is an awesome picture of our son Jasper on...Santa's lap this year! The second picture is with us (his parents), so...he calmed down a little, but he's still in a state of slight...devastation ;).”

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Genevieve writes: Our son, Oliver (14 months), visited Santa at our recent family trip to Disneyland just before Thanksgiving. He waited patiently for 15 minutes to see Santa and was in a very good mood. We figured he'd be fine because last year's Santa visit when he was 3 months old went very smoothly. As soon as I put him down on Santa's lap, the screaming was so dramatic, strangers walking by could not help but laugh and take pictures.”

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Genevieve writes: Our son, Oliver (14 months), visited Santa at our recent family trip to Disneyland just before Thanksgiving. He waited patiently for 15 minutes to see Santa and was in a very good mood. We figured he'd be fine because last year's Santa visit when he was 3 months old went very smoothly. As soon as I put him down on Santa's lap, the screaming was so dramatic, strangers walking by could not help but laugh and take pictures.”

Genevieve writes: Our son, Oliver (14 months), visited Santa at our...recent family trip to Disneyland just before Thanksgiving. He waited...patiently for 15 minutes to see Santa and was in a very good mood. We...figured he'd be fine because last year's Santa visit when he was 3...months old went very smoothly. As soon as I put him down on Santa's...lap, the screaming was so dramatic, strangers walking by could not...help but laugh and take pictures.”

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Carolyn writes: “Classic. Happens even in a quiet home setting. This is Katelyn, 14 months.”

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Carolyn writes: “Classic. Happens even in a quiet home setting. This is Katelyn, 14 months.”

Carolyn writes: “Classic. Happens even in a quiet home setting. ...This is Katelyn, 14 months.”

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Veronica writes: “This photo was taken last weekend with my 5 year old son. He's not crying, but he refused to sit on Santa's lap or even look at or talk to him. I put it on FB and people were cracking up ... thought you might like it.”

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Veronica writes: “This photo was taken last weekend with my 5 year old son. He's not crying, but he refused to sit on Santa's lap or even look at or talk to him. I put it on FB and people were cracking up ... thought you might like it.”

Veronica writes: “This photo was taken last weekend with my 5 year...old son. He's not crying, but he refused to sit on Santa's lap or even...look at or talk to him. I put it on FB and people were cracking up ... thought you might like it.”

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Self-proclaimed “Mom of the year” Erin writes: “What started out as a very excited trip to see Santa, quickly turned in to chaos as my 2 year old, Kennedy, changed her mind at the last minute. In retrospect, perhaps as a mom, I didn’t need to yell in the mall full of people to my 6 year, Avery, to “SMILE” as she’s recovering from a swift kick to the head. Maya, my 4 year old, didn’t let any of it phase her; she was intent on telling Santa all about the doll she wanted him to bring her for being such a good girl. Oh, the joy of the holidays!”

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Self-proclaimed “Mom of the year” Erin writes: “What started out as a very excited trip to see Santa, quickly turned in to chaos as my 2 year old, Kennedy, changed her mind at the last minute. In retrospect, perhaps as a mom, I didn’t need to yell in the mall full of people to my 6 year, Avery, to “SMILE” as she’s recovering from a swift kick to the head. Maya, my 4 year old, didn’t let any of it phase her; she was intent on telling Santa all about the doll she wanted him to bring her for being such a good girl. Oh, the joy of the holidays!”

Self-proclaimed “Mom of the year” Erin writes: “What started out...as a very excited trip to see Santa, quickly turned in to chaos as my...2 year old, Kennedy, changed her mind at the last minute. In...retrospect, perhaps as a mom, I didn’t need to yell in the mall full...of people to my 6 year, Avery, to “SMILE” as she’s recovering...from a swift kick to the head. Maya, my 4 year old, didn’t let any...of it phase her; she was intent on telling Santa all about the doll...she wanted him to bring her for being such a good girl. Oh, the joy...of the holidays!”

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Mel sends this photo of herself and her brother from 1979. She writes: “This is the one that gets on the mantle at my parents' house EVERY year…and I like how my dad's hand is gently pushing me on to Santa's lap, it's not extended to make me feel more comfortable but to make me stay in place so they could get this gem.”

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Mel sends this photo of herself and her brother from 1979. She writes: “This is the one that gets on the mantle at my parents' house EVERY year…and I like how my dad's hand is gently pushing me on to Santa's lap, it's not extended to make me feel more comfortable but to make me stay in place so they could get this gem.”

Mel sends this photo of herself and her brother from 1979. She writes:...“This is the one that gets on the mantle at my parents' house EVERY...year…and I like how my dad's hand is gently pushing me on to Santa's...lap, it's not extended to make me feel more comfortable but to make me...stay in place so they could get this gem.”

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Kevin writes: “My daughter and niece meeting santa for the first time. What is no, Alex.”

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Kevin writes: “My daughter and niece meeting santa for the first time. What is no, Alex.”

Kevin writes: “My daughter and niece meeting santa for the first...time. What is no, Alex.”

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Jenny writes: “My niece and nephew in 2011 and 2012. Another year, another horrifying encounter with St. Nick!”

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Jenny writes: “My niece and nephew in 2011 and 2012. Another year, another horrifying encounter with St. Nick!”

Jenny writes: “My niece and nephew in 2011 and 2012. Another year,...another horrifying encounter with St. Nick!”

Chris writes: “We took our 19 1/2 month-old twins to see Santa over the weekend. Although Santa's offer of candy canes was accepted, they did nothing to calm the twins down. Our strategy was to each put a kid on Santa's lap, then run away quickly while the photo was taken.”

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Chris writes: “We took our 19 1/2 month-old twins to see Santa over the weekend. Although Santa's offer of candy canes was accepted, they did nothing to calm the twins down. Our strategy was to each put a kid on Santa's lap, then run away quickly while the photo was taken.”

Chris writes: “We took our 19 1/2 month-old twins to see Santa over...the weekend. Although Santa's offer of candy canes was accepted, they...did nothing to calm the twins down. Our strategy was to each put a kid...on Santa's lap, then run away quickly while the photo was taken.”

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Peter writes: “Jack Gilham (left, 1 year) and Quinn O'Malley (right, 14 months), cousins from San Francisco and Ypsilanti, MI, respectively, enjoy their first visit to Santa at Gott's Roadside in Saint Helena. The duration of the visit was about 45 seconds, just long enough to snap a few photos and have a good laugh.”

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Peter writes: “Jack Gilham (left, 1 year) and Quinn O'Malley (right, 14 months), cousins from San Francisco and Ypsilanti, MI, respectively, enjoy their first visit to Santa at Gott's Roadside in Saint Helena. The duration of the visit was about 45 seconds, just long enough to snap a few photos and have a good laugh.”

Peter writes: “Jack Gilham (left, 1 year) and Quinn O'Malley (right,...14 months), cousins from San Francisco and Ypsilanti, MI,...respectively, enjoy their first visit to Santa at Gott's Roadside in...Saint Helena. The duration of the visit was about 45 seconds, just...long enough to snap a few photos and have a good laugh.”

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Nikki writes: “Cousins Dylan and Evan were not amused by Santa Claus or their matching sweaters.”

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Nikki writes: “Cousins Dylan and Evan were not amused by Santa Claus or their matching sweaters.”

Nikki writes: “Cousins Dylan and Evan were not amused by Santa Claus...or their matching sweaters.”

Devon writes: “Audrey (18 months) was so excited to see Santa and was saying "ho,ho" in line at the mall. Then I put her on his lap and the tears and screaming started. I'm pretty sure she was hyperventilating by the time I grabbed her. Poor thing. I think one of my favorite things about this picture is definitely Santa's face!”

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Devon writes: “Audrey (18 months) was so excited to see Santa and was saying "ho,ho" in line at the mall. Then I put her on his lap and the tears and screaming started. I'm pretty sure she was hyperventilating by the time I grabbed her. Poor thing. I think one of my favorite things about this picture is definitely Santa's face!”

Devon writes: “Audrey (18 months) was so excited to see Santa and...was saying "ho,ho" in line at the mall. Then I put her on his lap and...the tears and screaming started. I'm pretty sure she was...hyperventilating by the time I grabbed her. Poor thing. I think one of...my favorite things about this picture is definitely Santa's face!”

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Juanita Villa took toddler Lucio Siegel to the Tilden Park carousel Santa: She writes: “Needless to say, he was not particularly fond of Mr. Claus. The moment we walked up to Santa's house, panic settled into my little man's heart. Then we placed him on Santa's lap and all hell broke loose!”

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Juanita Villa took toddler Lucio Siegel to the Tilden Park carousel Santa: She writes: “Needless to say, he was not particularly fond of Mr. Claus. The moment we walked up to Santa's house, panic settled into my little man's heart. Then we placed him on Santa's lap and all hell broke loose!”

Juanita Villa took toddler Lucio Siegel to the Tilden Park carousel...Santa: She writes: “Needless to say, he was not particularly fond of...Mr. Claus. The moment we walked up to Santa's house, panic settled...into my little man's heart. Then we placed him on Santa's lap and all...hell broke loose!”

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“Keep in mind that my niece was all for meeting Santa and was super excited while we were standing in line,” reports Rosabelle, who two daughters are also in the picture. Her niece looked at the photo afterward and “cheerfully declared that it was her and she was crying.”

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“Keep in mind that my niece was all for meeting Santa and was super excited while we were standing in line,” reports Rosabelle, who two daughters are also in the picture. Her niece looked at the photo afterward and “cheerfully declared that it was her and she was crying.”

“Keep in mind that my niece was all for meeting Santa and was super...excited while we were standing in line,” reports Rosabelle, who two...daughters are also in the picture. Her niece looked at the photo...afterward and “cheerfully declared that it was her and she was...crying.”

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Shaye writes: “Here is this year’s photo of our daughters Annabelle (the smiling one) and Zooey (the screaming one). We always visit the Santa in Alameda Town Center – he is a great Santa (even if you can also find him in the off-hours at Lost Weekend).”

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Shaye writes: “Here is this year’s photo of our daughters Annabelle (the smiling one) and Zooey (the screaming one). We always visit the Santa in Alameda Town Center – he is a great Santa (even if you can also find him in the off-hours at Lost Weekend).”

Shaye writes: “Here is this year’s photo of our daughters...Annabelle (the smiling one) and Zooey (the screaming one). We always...visit the Santa in Alameda Town Center – he is a great Santa (even...if you can also find him in the off-hours at Lost Weekend).”

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Shannon and Warwick write: “Our happy go lucky son, Nicholas, visited Santa for the first time last year (age 1). Since he had loved the Easter Bunny, we thought for sure he'd like Santa. So we were very surprised at his unfavorable response. Not to worry, we did get a smiling picture of our little boy with Santa shortly after with Mommy holding him.”

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Shannon and Warwick write: “Our happy go lucky son, Nicholas, visited Santa for the first time last year (age 1). Since he had loved the Easter Bunny, we thought for sure he'd like Santa. So we were very surprised at his unfavorable response. Not to worry, we did get a smiling picture of our little boy with Santa shortly after with Mommy holding him.”

Shannon and Warwick write: “Our happy go lucky son, Nicholas,...visited Santa for the first time last year (age 1). Since he had...loved the Easter Bunny, we thought for sure he'd like Santa. So we...were very surprised at his unfavorable response. Not to worry, we did...get a smiling picture of our little boy with Santa shortly after with...Mommy holding him.”

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Alissa writes: “This is Emily on Santa's lap at the Tilden Merry-Go-Round last night. I tried to make the introduction gently, first holding her on my knee to introduce Santa before handing her over. But the second I lifted her toward him, the inevitable meltdown ensued. Santa was sweet but did admit, "I was afraid that was coming." She settled down after her brother and sister came in to join her, never quite smiling but at least turning her terror into a more resigned look that conveyed something along the lines of "this will end soon, won't it?!"”

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Alissa writes: “This is Emily on Santa's lap at the Tilden Merry-Go-Round last night. I tried to make the introduction gently, first holding her on my knee to introduce Santa before handing her over. But the second I lifted her toward him, the inevitable meltdown ensued. Santa was sweet but did admit, "I was afraid that was coming." She settled down after her brother and sister came in to join her, never quite smiling but at least turning her terror into a more resigned look that conveyed something along the lines of "this will end soon, won't it?!"”

Alissa writes: “This is Emily on Santa's lap at the Tilden...Merry-Go-Round last night. I tried to make the introduction gently,...first holding her on my knee to introduce Santa before handing her...over. But the second I lifted her toward him, the inevitable meltdown...ensued. Santa was sweet but did admit, "I was afraid that was...coming." She settled down after her brother and sister came in to...join her, never quite smiling but at least turning her terror into a...more resigned look that conveyed something along the lines of "this...will end soon, won't it?!"”

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Sarah writes: “Here is our entry taken at Dudley Perkins Harley-Davidson in South City. Thanks for the opportunity to share!”

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Sarah writes: “Here is our entry taken at Dudley Perkins Harley-Davidson in South City. Thanks for the opportunity to share!”

Sarah writes: “Here is our entry taken at Dudley Perkins...Harley-Davidson in South City. Thanks for the opportunity to share!”

Roya and Daniel’s mom writes: “We thought for sure this year would be different. We had talked about Santa, sung songs, even drew him a picture. Roya spoke with him, gave him the picture, told him what she wanted for Christmas (tutus and fairy wings). Then it was time for the picture......As soon as it was done, she stopped crying and continues to talk about Santa as if it never happened.”

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Roya and Daniel’s mom writes: “We thought for sure this year would be different. We had talked about Santa, sung songs, even drew him a picture. Roya spoke with him, gave him the picture, told him what she wanted for Christmas (tutus and fairy wings). Then it was time for the picture......As soon as it was done, she stopped crying and continues to talk about Santa as if it never happened.”

Roya and Daniel’s mom writes: “We thought for sure this year would...be different. We had talked about Santa, sung songs, even drew him a...picture. Roya spoke with him, gave him the picture, told him what she...wanted for Christmas (tutus and fairy wings). Then it was time for...the picture......As soon as it was done, she stopped crying and continues to talk about...Santa as if it never happened.”

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Eliana’s mom writes: “She wasn't feelin' it.”

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Eliana’s mom writes: “She wasn't feelin' it.”

Eliana’s mom writes: “She wasn't feelin' it.”

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Julie writes: “We took our 2 year old daughter Avery to the Oakland Zoo to see Zoo Lights and Santa was there to our delight. Well, mine and my husband's anyway. Avery was not amused. Nor was Santa. She tells me almost every night, "Mama, I don't want to ride with Santa!" Enjoy!”

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Julie writes: “We took our 2 year old daughter Avery to the Oakland Zoo to see Zoo Lights and Santa was there to our delight. Well, mine and my husband's anyway. Avery was not amused. Nor was Santa. She tells me almost every night, "Mama, I don't want to ride with Santa!" Enjoy!”

Julie writes: “We took our 2 year old daughter Avery to the Oakland...Zoo to see Zoo Lights and Santa was there to our delight. Well, mine...and my husband's anyway. Avery was not amused. Nor was Santa. She...tells me almost every night, "Mama, I don't want to ride with Santa!" ...Enjoy!”

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Karen writes: “This Santa told me I should have backed my son up to him (and not come at him facing forward), that way he wouldn't be crying hysterically. Yeah, buddy like he's not going to realize he's in some stranger's lap!! Of all the Santas we've seen, we like him the best and have been on the hunt to find him again every year!”

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Karen writes: “This Santa told me I should have backed my son up to him (and not come at him facing forward), that way he wouldn't be crying hysterically. Yeah, buddy like he's not going to realize he's in some stranger's lap!! Of all the Santas we've seen, we like him the best and have been on the hunt to find him again every year!”

Karen writes: “This Santa told me I should have backed my son up to...him (and not come at him facing forward), that way he wouldn't be...crying hysterically. Yeah, buddy like he's not going to realize he's...in some stranger's lap!! Of all the Santas we've seen, we like him the...best and have been on the hunt to find him again every year!”

Bryan writes: “This is Rya Reeves - 20 months old. From my wife, ‘Our sugarplum was all smiles and Wow!’s until I placed her upon Old St. Nick's lap. Then, like a bowl full of angry jelly, she began to shake, squirm and reach for ‘Mommy!’ as I stood by the camera. Side Note: Santa was chewing gum the whole time; perhaps he had anxiety issues and our daughter could sense it.’ I didn't witness this myself and I'm kinda happy I missed out.”

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Bryan writes: “This is Rya Reeves - 20 months old. From my wife, ‘Our sugarplum was all smiles and Wow!’s until I placed her upon Old St. Nick's lap. Then, like a bowl full of angry jelly, she began to shake, squirm and reach for ‘Mommy!’ as I stood by the camera. Side Note: Santa was chewing gum the whole time; perhaps he had anxiety issues and our daughter could sense it.’ I didn't witness this myself and I'm kinda happy I missed out.”

Bryan writes: “This is Rya Reeves - 20 months old. From my wife,...‘Our sugarplum was all smiles and Wow!’s until I placed her upon...Old St. Nick's lap. Then, like a bowl full of angry jelly, she began...to shake, squirm and reach for ‘Mommy!’ as I stood by the camera....Side Note: Santa was chewing gum the whole time; perhaps he had...anxiety issues and our daughter could sense it.’ I didn't witness...this myself and I'm kinda happy I missed out.”

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“Picture is of our daughter Sophia Reyes, 16 months old. Taken at Broadway Plaza Walnut Creek. Walked into the little Santa house and she was happy, waving and smiling at Santa but the minute we put her on his lap, she freaked out and started crying.”

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“Picture is of our daughter Sophia Reyes, 16 months old. Taken at Broadway Plaza Walnut Creek. Walked into the little Santa house and she was happy, waving and smiling at Santa but the minute we put her on his lap, she freaked out and started crying.”

“Picture is of our daughter Sophia Reyes, 16 months old. Taken at...Broadway Plaza Walnut Creek. Walked into the little Santa house and...she was happy, waving and smiling at Santa but the minute we put her...on his lap, she freaked out and started crying.”

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Pollie Robbins writes: “Will was in the finals last year for his picture with Santa. We have a new addition to the family, Margaret, who seems to take Santa in stride. Will hasn't changed much. Can't wait to see all the entries.”

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Pollie Robbins writes: “Will was in the finals last year for his picture with Santa. We have a new addition to the family, Margaret, who seems to take Santa in stride. Will hasn't changed much. Can't wait to see all the entries.”

Pollie Robbins writes: “Will was in the finals last year for his...picture with Santa. We have a new addition to the family, Margaret,...who seems to take Santa in stride. Will hasn't changed much. Can't...wait to see all the entries.”

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Sarah sends a photo of Grayson (2.5 years old) and Hadley (7 months). Love the running in mid-air pose …

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Sarah sends a photo of Grayson (2.5 years old) and Hadley (7 months). Love the running in mid-air pose …

Sarah sends a photo of Grayson (2.5 years old) and Hadley (7 months)....Love the running in mid-air pose …

Garth writes: “Daughter Rona , 4 years old and son Ever, 1, loving...Santa.”

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Hoa writes: “This is a picture of our 13 month old daughter Rory visiting Santa at the Oakland Zoo Lights. We initially nixed having her take a photo with Santa because we knew she'd freak out, but then thought,"what's the worse that can happen?" I love Santa's facial expression in this picture. Happy holidays and thanks for holding this contest against this year.”

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Hoa writes: “This is a picture of our 13 month old daughter Rory visiting Santa at the Oakland Zoo Lights. We initially nixed having her take a photo with Santa because we knew she'd freak out, but then thought,"what's the worse that can happen?" I love Santa's facial expression in this picture. Happy holidays and thanks for holding this contest against this year.”

Hoa writes: “This is a picture of our 13 month old daughter Rory...visiting Santa at the Oakland Zoo Lights. We initially nixed having...her take a photo with Santa because we knew she'd freak out, but then...thought,"what's the worse that can happen?" I love Santa's facial...expression in this picture. Happy holidays and thanks for holding this...contest against this year.”

Thank you to everyone who entered the eighth Santa Tantrum Awards. SEE THE WINNERS BELOW!

With a record number of entries, it was pretty much impossible to pick six STA VIII winners. We had to leave some epic meltdowns behind. There are no losers in this contest. We tried as much as possible for variety, following our instincts while also weighing in voting in the comments.

The entire field is in the gallery above. The winners are below. The top three finishers — winner, runner up and reader’s choice — will be contacted for their major prize. (Actually, a choice among a selection of video games, DVDs and Blu-rays.)

Hope everyone had a great Christmas!

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THE CHIP-OFF-THE-OLD-TANTRUM SPECIAL CITATION FOR CROSS-GENERATIONAL HOLIDAY CRANKINESS

arian one

(Courtesy Ariane and Charles Zewe)

“I learned it from watching you!” Ariane and Charles Zewe took a historical approach to this contest – using their own Santa photos to prove that St. Nick fear runs in the family. Their 15-month-old twins are even making the exact same mouth expressions as their parents — Ariane’s “How the @#$% could you do this to me?” look and Charles’ barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world.

Note that each generation seems to hate Santa a little bit more. I’m guessing the children of these toddlers will find a way to set Santa’s beard on fire.

THE LEGACY AWARD FOR A SANTA MELTDOWN DURING THE TRUMAN ADMINISTRATION

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Courtesy Ken Dwinell

This 1949 photo makes a nice double feature with “A Christmas Story.” Kenny may look different than the modern Santa lap-sitter (kids in 2012 definitely need to bring back the double-breasted hounds-tooth overcoat) but he proves that children in post-war San Francisco hated Santa just as much as they do now.

Thanks to Ken Dwinell and his wonderful mother for not only saving the image, but also the Emporium Santa’s Village photo folder. As we’ve written before, this was the one true San Francisco Santa Claus. Ken is squirming like a pro, but St. Nick keeps things under control.

SANTA OF THE YEAR … “AND YOU WILL KNOW MY NAME IS THE LORD, WHEN I LAY MY PRESENTS UPON THEE.”

santa sarah wells

Courtesy Sarah Wells

Sarah Wells submitted the outstanding entry, with her Santa-hating green argyle sweatered boy in full sprint. This Santa at Dudley Perkins Harley Davidson is the most interesting St. Nick in the world. The scene is what I would imagine if Samuel L. Jackson put on the suit.

Note that the brother/cousin/friend is using a full body clamp to keep the crying kid from bolting. I can imagine this Santa saying (in “Snakes on a Plane” voice) “You want to go, kid, be my guest … .” Santa also appears to have his hands cupped into position for an imaginary cigar/glass of scotch and has a look on his face that I can only describe as resigned coolness. Best Santa of 2012.

How much do twins Chris and Lauren Jung want to escape Santa? They’re bending their rubbery 19-month-old bodies to the limits, with Chris executing a violent back arch (possibly rearing back for a head butt) while Lauren tries to will her body into liquid form so she can drip off St. Nick’s lap. But through it all, they manage to hold onto their candy canes – which they may or may not be using as weapons in their breakout attempt. Credit this Santa for holding on, although I’m doubting he made the full eight seconds …

Erin sends in this two-parter, featuring 2-year-old daughter Kennedy catching 6-year-old Avery with a hard kick to the temple. In the second slide, Avery couldn’t look more dazed by the blow if she had a halo of little blue birds and stars circling her head. Meanwhile, this particularly dapper Santa is looking like he wishes he took the Barista job down at Starbucks.

Normally we don’t give more than two prizes, but we’ll work with Erin to find a prize that Avery likes. Hoping the Chronicle will let me expense a new pony …

THE WINNER!

santa sara schones

Courtesy Sara Schones

Absolutely love this entry by Sara Schones, who is my new hero. She reminds me of Santa Tantrum Awards first ballot hall-of-famer and quadruplets mother Gen McNulty. I love the fury set forth by Sara’s 20-month-old screaming triplets Finn,Calvin and William — particularly the bottom triplet’s Kevin Bacon-in-the-”Footloose”-warehouse-scene pose.

But I’m charmed even more by Sara’s ability to just roll with it and own the moment. If Sara can show so much poise with three, I need to complain a lot less handling one. As much crying that’s going on, this one feels like Christmas.

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Thanks to everyone who entered! The winner, runner-up and reader’s choice will receive an e-mail with some prize choices early next week.

PETER HARTLAUB is the pop culture critic at the San Francisco Chronicle and founder/editor of The Big Event. He takes requests. Contact him at phartlaub@sfchronicle.com. Follow him on Twitter @peterhartlaub. Follow The Big Event on Facebook.